Conference Study Group:  
Grantmaking Strategies for Policy Change
Special Conference Program

Friday, October 19 10:00 am – 3:30 pm  

How can funders leverage their investments to achieve far-reaching and lasting impact? By helping to shape effective education policy. While the results of successful policy work can be significant, many funders tread cautiously in this terrain, often unnecessarily. This half-day seminar was designed for funders from small- to mid-sized philanthropies who are engaged in policy change efforts – or are poised to do so. We examined different assumptions and successful approaches for policy change as a grantmaking and partnership strategy, and identified ways of addressing the downside risks.

Led by a nationally-recognized advocacy expert and foundation peers, the 2007 conference study group featured three workshops to build your knowledge and connect you with colleagues who could be an ongoing source of support and ideas. This program offered richer opportunities for discussion and networking than a traditional breakout session allows, and participants gained contacts and resources that continue to support their work after they went home.

Program Schedule

• Welcome and Introductions
  Carmen James Lane, Program Officer, Eugene & Agnes E. Meyer Foundation
• Presentation - Playing to Win: Supporting Advocacy to Maximize Impact 
  Why should grantmakers consider investing in advocacy? What can grantmakers and advocates learn from successful campaign strategies to advance new education policies? What pitfalls must they avoid?
  Roy Miller, President, Children's Campaign, Inc.
• Roundtable discussion - Working across the Spectrum: Lessons in Public Policy Change for Small and Mid-Sized Funders 
  Using the experiences of seasoned grantmakers with distinct approaches, this discussion identified a range of roles for funders engaging in the policy process. We identified the key benefits and challenges of each approach, helping to extract lessons for your own grantmaking
  Nicole Gallant, Program Executive, The Atlantic Philanthropies | Dorothy Jacobson, Vice President, Rodel Charitable Foundation of Delaware | Ada Sanchez, Executive Director, Peppercorn Foundation | Cassie Schwerner, Director of Programs and Strategic Leadership, Schott Foundation for Public Education
• Discussion - Making the Case: Helping Your Board Embrace a Policy Strategy 
  Is your board reluctant to engage in the policy arena? How have you addressed concerns about risks and constraints? Participants sought and shared advice with colleagues about how to build their board's comfort with this work.